2024 Ford Bronco vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design that harkened back to the 1960s, particularly in its two-door variant. The Sasquatch Package, a notable upgrade, enhanced its rugged appearance with a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires, giving it a wide stance and purposeful look. Without this package, the Bronco's design seemed incomplete, as the factory tires struggled to fill the fender flares. Inside, the Bronco offered a blend of modern technology and nostalgic touches, such as an 8-inch digital display and a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The interior was practical, with knobs and buttons for essential controls, and the marine-grade upholstery, while durable, was not the most comfortable in hot conditions.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. The sculptural sheet metal and cabin placement contributed to its athletic appearance. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly designed with Nappa leather and polished metallic trim, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. The ergonomics, however, left room for improvement, with a confusing electronic shifter and a non-touchscreen infotainment system. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 maintained a sophisticated look and feel, offering a premium experience compared to most midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2024 Ford Bronco offered a range of engine options, starting with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. It came with a choice of a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Raptor model boasted a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft, and a higher tow rating of 4,500 pounds. The Bronco's off-roading capabilities were enhanced by technologies like Trail Control, Trail One-Pedal Drive, and Trail Turn Assist. However, its fuel efficiency was a concern, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg combined for the Big Bend Sasquatch model.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine in the 3.3 Turbo models, generating 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an option for 340 hp using premium gas. Power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Despite its impressive ride and handling, the drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. The EPA rated the CX-90 at 25 mpg combined, but real-world testing showed 21.3 mpg.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, particularly in the four-door configuration, provided ample interior space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery, while durable, trapped moisture, making cloth seats a preferable option. The Bronco's versatility was evident with its removable roof panels and doors, allowing for an open-air driving experience. Cargo space was generous, with the four-door model offering 38.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 83 cubic feet with them down.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, providing a premium feel. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, but the long rear doors made loading children challenging. The third row was best suited for children, and cargo space was limited, with 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row and 74.2 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and a seven-speaker stereo. However, the system experienced connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and inconsistent voice recognition performance. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps and information, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment system was touch-sensitive only when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was hit-and-miss, but the 12-speaker Bose audio system delivered a rewarding listening experience. The Active Driving Display provided helpful information, including blind-spot alerts.

The 2024 Ford Bronco was equipped with standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a backup camera. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Bronco received favorable ratings from the IIHS, except for its headlight performance, and a four-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 excelled in safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trim levels added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was occasionally irritating.